Rigging Tension O'Day Tempest

[Clive Joy]

I am enjoying (day sailing) and campaigning the Tempest in various Carribean Regattas. ( Lesser Antillies)I have replaced the entire rigging from 4mm to 5mm, and would like to know if anyone has any idea as to the tensions.Some advice has been given, but contrary.Inner shrouds tight, and outer shrouds less so. Others have said, outer shrouds tight, and inner ones less so.Has anyone added and adjustable back stay, or run a second forstay?

 

[Justin - O'day Owners' Web]

Rigging

Clive - First, for a good overview on rigging I'd direct you to Brion Toss's book on the subject. Comprehensive overview of the subject in easily understood terms.As far as suggestions - I'd set the uppers so that they deflect about an inch with a twenty pound push at shoulder level, for starters. Then I'd set the lowers so that they're just not quite as tight. The sail it. When going hard to windward, the mast should remain in column (straight) and the leward shrounds may be loose but not floppy. Adjust from there. Headstay tension should be enough to allow an inch or two of deflection when on the wind, but not more. Back stay should balance it. Adjustable is nice - all you need to do is shorten the backstay, add a block at terminal and run a tackle to the chainplate. Be careful not to over tension, though.Justin - O'day Owners' Web

 

[Paul]

What is the Title of the book?

You mentioned the author, what is the title?

 

[Bud Brown]

Go Tempest

Regarding rigging tension: as with any sloop rig it is better to tighen the inner shrouds first, then the outer. I have always had the out slightly loose compared to the inner, and have had experience racing with Lightnings and Comets. Don't over tighten, better to be to loose. The way I see it. excess tension only puts more strain on the hull and deck. On a Tempest there is little under deck reinforcement. In fact, to this end I would be interested to here how other owners have addressed this potential big problem. For some good aticles on the subject of rigging look at Good Old Boat Magazine.